There are a great many things that draw visitors and vacationers alike to Charleston. The city, proper, is a Mecca for art and architectural students with its hundreds of galleries and well-preserved, eclectic design in structure: Italianate, Federal, Victorian, Georgian, and Grecian to name a few. Many things to many people, Charleston is also a college town to which scholars are drawn for the fine schools offering a fine experience in higher education. Perhaps it's the history that lures people to come and tour Charleston's museums and historic sites to peek into the founding of our country. It may be some are interested in touring plantations and learning more about the seeds of discontent planted over slavery that led to the advent of the Civil War. Or it could be that the rich religious history due to Charleston's early melting pot society that offers the unique multitude of styles in structure of church and temple steeples that add to her unique beauty and earned her the name the Holy City. The presence of the military history from the time of the founding of Charleston offers much to see for military, aviation and war buffs as well. There is certainly a wealth of history that offers rich learning opportunities for any who visit Charleston but then again, maybe it's just the balmy weather, constant sunshine and pristine beaches that draw vacationers like bees to honey.

The city of Charleston and surrounding area is arranged so that one can rent an ocean-side house on one of the islands, James, Pawleys, Sullivan, Daniels, or Isle of Palms, seemingly far away from traffic and city streets and still be only 15 minutes from the culture of downtown. Conversely, one can choose a Bed & Breakfast, an Inn or a hotel guestroom or suite right in the center of town on the City Market and still be only a short ride to countryside plantation tours or a day of nationally top-rated golfing. Whether here for business or pleasure, ocean or art, family or romance, there is an accommodation to suit every purpose and budget that allows for the best of both worlds.

Literally achieving world acclaim for her events, Charleston hosts some of the most exciting and well-organized festivals that bring couples, families and groups back year after year. The South Eastern Wildlife Exhibition prompts visitors to come and learn about the unique and expansive natural resources and wildlife indigenous to South Carolina through works of art, sculptures, and family activities. The SEWE promotes respect for our wildlife resources and the necessity of conservation and replenishment to maintain a balance in the extraordinary sporting opportunities offered in the area. Another renowned event in Charleston is The Spoleto Arts Festival. Likely the most widely popular Charleston event bringing artists, actors, poets, musicians, dancers and lovers of art in all genres from all over the world together for a few weeks to be immersed in performances in venues all over Charleston. The Piccolo Spoleto held simultaneously with Spoleto offers hundreds of free performances and activities to engage children in the arts to create a family festival atmosphere. A month does not pass in Charleston without some type of holiday, cultural or regional event that will add to the excitement of a visit to Charleston. Here, one will find long-standing Blues and Oyster Festivals, a nationally recognized 4th of July celebration, gallery tours, art walks and the shopping, oh the shopping!

Whether downtown on King Street, the sleepy town of Summerville or even as far out as Walterboro for the antique hunter the Charleston area has earned her reputation as a treasure hunter's dream. King Street also boasts a design and fashion district where all the top named SHOPPINGs offer sought-after fashion products. For the pocketbook conscious, there are over 150 factory outlet stores at the Tanger Outlet Mall by the Charleston International Airport offering highly recognizable names for outlet prices such as Coach Leather, Christian Dior, Nine West and more. The Charleston City Market offers history and charm in a flea market type environment. But make no mistake there are hand-woven Sweetgrass baskets, leather goods, art, clothing and all kinds of quality products offered by these sidewalk vendors. Shopping 'til you're sated and then, stop for lunch with a selection of restaurants that is unrivalled. From bistro to burger, Irish to Italian, from French fries to French cuisine, virtually every possible restaurant choice can be found in Charleston to satisfy any taste or appetite. For ease of selection, check Charleston's Finest Dining Guide and Restaurant Reviews to choose just the right spot for lunch or that special evening dinner.

Tour the city, take in the sites, and learn the rich and eclectic history, relax on the beaches, soak up the sun, select a variety of foods, and sample wine from local vineyards but be forewarned, many who come here for vacation are caught in the magical snare that is Charleston and find themselves packed and moved before they know what happened. A premier destiny spot for events, cruises and vacations, Charleston has become a hotspot for relocation as people learn the secrets of her slow, southern lifestyle, great property values and growing aeronautics and technological industries. Asking, "Why not?" People from all over the country are seeking what Charleston and her surrounding areas have to offer: a beautiful city, culture, exciting events, tropical beaches with swaying palms, balmy weather, steamy nightlife, and opportunity for a slower, more congenial lifestyle. Y'all come visit; fall in love with the allure of Charleston's charms.